External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a detailed phone call covering a wide range of strategic and economic issues. Discussions focused on advancing cooperation in trade, critical minerals, nuclear energy, defence and energy security, against the backdrop of ongoing bilateral trade negotiations. Jaishankar said both sides agreed to remain in close contact. The US State Department noted that Rubio congratulated India on the passage of the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India Bill and showed interest in deepening civil nuclear cooperation and expanding opportunities for US companies. The leaders also reviewed regional developments, reaffirming their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, while exploring next steps in strengthening overall India–US economic and strategic ties.